Washington, DC- Ed Black, President and CEO of the Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA), released the following statement in reaction to Senator Jeffords’ decision to become an independent and join with Democrats in organizing the Senate:
“Congress has traditionally considered high-technology issues on a bipartisan basis. While Senator Jeffords’ move is significant in many ways, the industry’s concerns are not ideological. Most of our executives are pragmatic problem solvers, and know computers don’t run on code with a liberal or conservative style. It only matters that they run properly.
“On issues ranging from open trade and balanced intellectual property laws, to privacy, antitrust, and broadband, our industry has long recognized that we have broad support on a bipartisan basis. These issues typically require some delicate balancing of competing interests. While the consideration of individual issues concerning our industry may now be different, we do not view this development as dramatically affecting the overall goals of our industry.
“The technology industry is one of the most innovative environments in history. As a result, many laws need to be adapted to fit the new Internet era. This is a reality many understand, and responding to it will continue to require bipartisan solutions. CCIA, and the industry at large, will continue to work with and support those members who understand and encourage the efforts of our industry, and who share our concern for the health and vitality of the industry. We hope both parties will see the common ground inherent within the industry’s agenda, and focus on finding solutions that will strengthen its’ competitive abilities in the international arena.”